MTH 316 Algebra

Spring 2014

Instructor: Lubos Thoma

Office: Lippitt Hall 101F
Tel: 874.4451

Class schedule: TuTh 12.30 - 1:45pm, Washburn Hall 133

Description:
The goals of the class are to learn the basic techniques and theorems of
modern abstract algebra (groups and rings), to expose you to the axiomatic
approach in modern mathematics, and last but not least to make you more familiar
with proofs.
Topics to be covered include permutations, groups, subgroups, homomorphisms
and factor groups, rings, ideals and factor rings, polynomial rings, fields, and extension fields.
Modern abstract algebra has a wide variety of applications: mathematics itself,
physics, automata and theoretical computer science, cryptography and information theory,
biology, and other. We will see some applications in the class.

Evaluation:
The grade will be based on the homework assignments (the lowest homework score will be dropped),
the midsemester exams, and the final in the following way:
homework 30%, the midterm exams 20 each%, the final 30%.

Accommodations:
Any student with a documented disability is welcome to contact me as early in the semester as possible so that we may arrange reasonable accommodations. As part of this process, please be in touch with Disability Services for Students Office at 330 Memorial Union, 401-874-2098 (http://www.uri.edu/disability/dss/).

Illness due to flu:
If any of us develop flu-like symptoms, we
are being advised to stay home until the fever has subsided for 24 hours. So, if you exhibit such
symptoms, please do not come to class. Notify me at 874-4451 or my email
of your status, and we will work together to ensure that
course instruction and work is completed for the semester.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have posted simple methods to avoid transmission of
illness. These include: covering your mouth and nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing; frequent
washing or sanitizing your hands; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; and staying home when
you are sick. For more information please view www.cdc.gov/flu or flu.gov . URI Health Services web
page, www.health.uri.edu , will carry advice and local updates.

Standards of behaviour:
Students are responsible for being familiar with and adhering to the published "Community Standards of Behavior: University Policies and Regulations" which can be accessed in the University Student Handbook.
If you must come in late, please do not disrupt the class.
Please turn off all cell phones, pagers, or any electronic devices.